RMIT Vietnam offers nearly $6mn for 65 PhD scholarships

RMIT University Vietnam has announced the selection results for its 2025 PhD scholarship program, marking the first time all available scholarships have been awarded to qualified candidates.

According to the university, the new cohort will join 18 doctoral programs across three schools.

The School of Business and Management will host 29 PhD candidates, the School of Science, Engineering and Technology will have 28, and the School of Communication and Design will enroll eight.

The research topics span a range of fields including business, technology, sustainable development, social innovation, and the creative industries.

Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, vice-chancellor and president of RMIT University Vietnam, said 2025 marks the university’s largest investment to date in doctoral education in the country.

He said the funding aims not only to advance research and innovation but also to develop experts capable of creating real-world impact and strengthening connections between Vietnam and the global academic community.

Beyond financial support, the PhD scholarships are seen as a strategic investment aligned with Vietnam’s long-term development goals.

After more than 25 years accompanying Vietnam’s economic growth, the university believes the country’s next phase of development will require research-driven policies, evidence-based business models, technological breakthroughs, and innovative approaches to sustainable development.

In remarks to the new cohort of doctoral candidates, Thompson-Whiteside underlined the role of researchers as Vietnam accelerates economic growth, innovation, and digital transformation.

“Our scholarships enable talented researchers to pursue in-depth studies, collaborate with internationally recognized supervisors, and build lasting professional networks,” he said.

More PhD scholarships in 2026

RMIT University Vietnam has significantly expanded its doctoral scholarship program in recent years, increasing the number of scholarships from 41 in 2024 to 65 in 2025.

The university said the fact that all available places were filled for the first time reflects the program’s growing appeal to domestic applicants.

The university has also expanded its industry-linked PhD model, allowing doctoral candidates to work on research projects with corporate partners.

In addition, internship programs lasting three to six months at leading organizations have been introduced to strengthen practical applications and industry connections.

RMIT Vietnam said several candidates from the program have also been selected as Fulbright scholars to continue their research in the United States.

The university said it will continue offering 65 PhD scholarships in 2026, with six places already matched with suitable candidates.

It plans to prioritize research areas considered strategic for Vietnam and the Asia-Pacific region, while strengthening collaboration with businesses, government agencies, and communities to ensure doctoral research delivers practical impact.